5 comments about Protect Your Pet: More Shocking Facts.

1. I purchased this book before I got my 2nd Australian Shepherd puppy. I wanted to do "everything" right for her. This book has really made me think about the food my pets eat and also about their vaccinations.
   
   I suggest that every person who owns and cares about their pets to read this book. Either you agree with what she says or you dont, but Ann (the author) does have a lot of people backing her opinions up. She has ALL of their names/contact info in the back of her book for references. You just cant doubt what she says by the way she documents herself.
   
   I even purchased this book for Christmas gifts this year for 2 of my family members.
   
   BUY IT!



2. Ann Martin is to be commended for her thorough research on pet foods, raw meat diets and vaccinations.
   
   Several people on these reviews have criticized Martin for her stance on raw meat and bones. However, I am convinced by Martin's research that raw meat and bones are risky, and her findings on a percentage basis of what can go wrong is enough to sway me.
   
   The most persisent claim made by raw-dieters is that dogs need to be given foods which mimic those of the wild. Puleeze. There are wolves and coyotes and now dogs. Dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years now, a home animal. They are no longer natural predators. Though evolution is slow enough to have left dogs' teeth and bone physiology intact, they are not predatory animals any longer. Being domesticated, they are dependent upon humans for their food. You send a domesticated dog out into the wild to hunt down its food and it won't do it. The instincts are not there any more. Dogs are totally dependent upon man to feed them. You can be sure that the man of the family did not share the prime cuts of a kill to a domesticated animal. When an animal was slaughtered or hunted, absolutely no part of that animal was wasted. Feathers, fur were used for bedding, clothing, trading. All the meat, organ meats, bones were used in cauldrons, smoking, seasoning, and for bone broths. One cannot think that a dog would be given precedence over its family; food was too hard to come by, too precious for preferential treatment given an animal, no matter how valuable it was to the family. Dogs, as a matter of fact, became almost exclusively pet-companion animals only in the 20th century. Prior to that, a dog was often used to guard a home or for herding, hunting. It was never sent out into the wild to get its own food. The most logical way a dog was fed was its humans' daily leftover - table scraps if you will. I believe that dogs were slopped as pigs were - given all the remains of the daily rations. It could include bits of bread, cooked grains, meat, cultured dairy, milk, eggs and their shells, vegetable remains and greens. It is highly improbable that people a long time ago cooked for or even minded the "special needs" of a dog the way people do today.
   Unfortunately, even fresh food scraps have given way to kibble for dogs in the last 50-60 years, which is not even close to being nutritious.
   I laud Ann Martin for taking a common sense, practical approach to pet diets. I know the way I will go: variety is the sure key here.



3. Martin's first book, "Food Pets Die For," is extremely useful if you really want to know what you're feeding your pet with those cheap commercial dog foods and how it may affect them negatively. (Some people may _not_ want to know, although you owe it to your companion animal(s) to find out.) This book, however, was disappointing. Much of it was common sense or, at least, common knowledge for anyone who has cared for animals and made any attempt to learn anything about their health (e.g., anti-freeze is bad, chocolate is bad, onion is bad). This book was repetitive and dull. I'd strongly recommend the first book, but skip this one unless you are just getting your first companion animal and/or don't know much about everyday dangers.



4. While this book certainly has its information pros regarding the disgusting secrets kept by commercial pet food companies, it appears to disagree with the idea that a raw food diet is healthy. I could not disagree more, and here's why... I have been working in animal nutrition as a pet chef for quite some time, dabbling in several areas of nutrition from standard commercial diets to cooked/raw food diets, and the fact is that commercial pet food is just plain harmful. Let me ask you this? Just because the grocery store sells pork rinds, does that mean they are good for you? NO! So why feed your pet anything that isn't something you yourself would EVER dream of eating? When America can pour a bowl of kibble for breakfast and come out looking and feeling the picture of health, then maybe I will change my tune. Until then, I choose to not only advise EVERYONE to feed a raw and/or cooked diet, I also feed my eight cats a total raw food diet. When I changed their diet, their world became a brighter place. No dandruff, no vomiting, no loose stool, brighter eyes, a full and sleek coat, better dental health, more restful sleep... etc. In addition, I recommend reading Anitra Fraizer's "The New Natural Cat" as well as the CatNutrition.Org website. Happy Reading!



5. This is by far one of the best books I have ever read on the subject of pet food. Anybody who has a companion animal in their life should read this book.
   
   Ann Martin starts off the book explaining what has led her to doing this investigation and the many years of research that led up to writing this book--and also her first book, "Food Pets Die For". From page one, Ms. Martin makes a credible argument about why people should know more about this topic. Throughout this book, Ms. Martin writes about the past 12 years of research that included interviewing different organizations and people about the topic of pet food. She goes into great detail about her different request to both the US and Canadian governments and pet food industry groups to get more information. Most of these requests end up as dead ends. From here, Ms. Martin does her own research by starting with veterinarian clinics, hospitals and kill shelters asking the simple question of "where do these euthanized animals go from here...?" When she gets that answer, she goes to that source and asks the same questions. In all cases, the trail goes to pet food and livestock food manufacturers.
   
   I already knew the main ingredients of kibble when I borrowed this book from my library. I was more interested in learning more about the BARF (bones and raw food) diet. From the other reviews on this book, I thought that Ann Martin would provide a non-biased viewpoint on this topic--as it seems that most people are very divided on the subject of BARF diets. Even though my interest was primarily on BARF diets and even though I already knew what pet food is made from, it was good to read about one person's investigative experience that spanned over 12 years.
   
   I also read "Food Pets Die For". Between these two books, I preferred this book because of the new information on the BARF diet, vaccinations, puppy mills and the animal fur business. I had also already done a considerable amount of research on these topics as well and I found Ms. Martin's information to be in line with everything I already knew about these industries.
   
   Our beloved 13 year old Chihuahua, Yoda passed away about two weeks ago at UC Davis Veterinary Hospital. When deciding what to do with his remains, we discussed the options with the Hospital staff. We were given the option of letting the hospital "handle his remains". I then ask how they "handle" the remains. I was told that "Yoda would be sent to a rendering plant, where he undergoes a 'chemical process' and then sent to a landfill for burial". The hospital staff worker went on to explain that we could be assured that "...Yoda certainly would not end up as pet food, as this is an urban legend." The next day, I did a quick google search on "rendered dog landfill California". The first link that popped up was a report in PDF format from Los Angeles County. Here is the first paragraph from this report: What happens to the bodies of animals that are euthanized at County shelters? Deceased animals are picked up by D&D Disposal, also known as West Coast Rendering, located in Vernon, Calif. The remains are rendered into animal by-products. D&D processes hundreds of tons of animal carcasses, tissues and by-products that would otherwise end up in landfills. Here's a link to that report: http://animalcontrol.co.la.ca.us/html/pages/for%20the%20record/Rendering%20and%20food%20&%20Ag%20Report%20.pdf . Ironically, Ms. Martin uncovers the same facts about this company, D&D Disposal (AKA West Coast Rendering, located in Vernon, Calif.)
   
   It frightens me that such a respected place like UC Davis Veterinary Teaching Hospital is so misinformed.
   
   Another interesting point made in this book that I can also confirm from personal experience. Ms. Martin has found that in most cases, veterinarians acquire knowledge about animal nutrition from "nutritional information" provided by Hill's Company--a well known pet food company. During Yoda's first visit at UC Davis in October 2005, the doctor sent us home with a WHOLE CASE of Hill's canned dog food and instructed us to feed Yoda this instead of the home-cooked diet he was on.
   
   I applaud Ann N. Martin on this very important investigative research and I appreciate that she has made this information available to anyone who is interested in knowing more about what we are feeding the furry members of their family.

3 comments about Horse Miracles: Inspirational True Tales of Remarkable Horses.

1. This is the perfect collection for teenage, horse-crazy girls, and reminds me of the Horse Stories I gobbled up as a kid.
   
   It's a collection of true stories, apparently from people all over the country, each told to a writer and then edited together into this collection. Some are better than others, but they all remind us of how noble, perceptive and kind horses can be when they become partners with their owners instead of beasts of burden.



2. This book is plagued with plagerism of already published stories. Most of the details regarding the stories about Ruffian and Secretariat are inaccurate, and they called Riva Ridge, "River Ridge". Very, very, very poorly researched and written. I do not advise anyone to buy this book. I was very disgusted with it. Also, they mention several times that horses are often sold for dog food, and apparently they did NO research on this little fact, HORSES HAVEN"T been used in dog food for nearly 30 years!!!! Perhaps they were trying to cover up for the slaughter industry which buys and slaughters horses for human consumption overseas. I couldn't even finish the book, I didn't trust any of the content as truthful.



3. As a rider and having owned a horse I was so pleased to discover "HORSE MIRACLES". Brad Steiger and Sherry Hansen Steiger's newest delightful collection of true horse tales is an absolute lovely tribute to a long overlooked subject. It easily demonstrates the most noble and important role that horses can miraculously play in the lives of humans. I'm sure that every horse owner can identify with the Steiger's newest book. And if you have never owned a horse it gives a wonderful insight into the oft times ignored talents and sensitivity of these noble creatures. I've enjoyed all of the Steiger storys about other animal miracles but "HORSE MIRACLES" is just especially outstanding! I just could not put it down. And, as usual it is told through the Steigers own special and creative way of writing that lets you, as the reader 'see' and 'feel' the action in each story as it happens.
   Does it get any better than Brad Steiger and Sherry Hanson Steiger's "Horse Miracles"? ...'neigh'...Charming and wonderful
   is the only way I know to describe their newest book!!!...I will read it over and over as it is highly inspirational! I plan to be sure to use "HORSE MIRACLES" as a top gift consideration to friends and absolutely recommend it as an outstanding book for any member of the family individually or to read aloud from on family night.

2 comments about Herd on the Street: Animal Stories from The Wall Street Journal (Wall Street Journal Book).

1. My dad is in the story on page 43. I get to go to work to help him catch the animals out of peoples houses. It is alot of work and sometimes dangerous but I get to learn alot about animals.



2. No matter the state of the economy, the weakness of the markets, or the dudgeon of the editorial page, there's always one part of The Wall Street Journal that brings a smile -- the center column on the front page known in our household as the "nut box." "Herd on the Street" collects the best of a special genre of nut box stories, the ones about animals.

   From dogs and cats to roaches, sturgeons, and Punxsutawney Phil, most every corner of the animal kingdom is represented here. The essays are almost uniformly well written, entertaining, and sometimes even educational. More than a few are laugh-out-loud funny, some are quite memorable, and one at least is unexpectedly poignant -- a contribution by slain WSJ reporter Daniel Pearl.

   Animal lovers might well find themselves sitting down and reading this title from end to end. And certainly, people who otherwise have no sympathy with or interest in the Journal will find this worth the read. It would make a fine book to keep by your bed, or in a guest bedroom, for an end-of-the-evening treat before resting up in readiness for what The Street may throw at you in the morning.

5 comments about Wisdom of the Animals: Communication Between Animals and the People Who Love Them.

1. I am not a non-believer in animal communication. I believe whole-heartedly that animals can communicate, and that we can truly speak to them with our minds and hearts. This is great book material, and of course, the stories are moving. But having met with the author Rapheala Pope, in person, I really question her ability to intuit my animal or even me as a pet owner for that matter. I found it paradoxical after reading this book. The contents of this book sold itself to me, and I couldn't wait to meet with her. The person I met with did not seem like the same person who wrote this book! My dog has some serious behavioral problems, and I've worked religiously with her for the last 2 years. I love this dog with all my heart and soul, and I really would do anything for her. Rapheala had the audacity to ask me if I would ever consider "giving her away" because she felt we "were mismatched." This I felt, was ludicrous. This dog would surely be euthanized if it did not have such a dedicated owner as I. I am well educated, and have researched extensively the causes of behavior exhibited my companion animal, and was quite surprised that Raphaela did not "pick-up" on this. The gardener at my local cemetery said to me the other day "I can tell you really love your dog." I find this amazing that a telepathic animal communicator could not even read something so simple as the obvious dedication I have for this animal, and offend me so greatly by suggesting that I should perhaps consider giving her away. She could not have been further from the truth in her feeble attempt to intuit ANYTHING about our relationship. In relation to the book, of course it is great reading material, and I can see why dedicated animal lovers would want to purchase it. But then again, how would a book filled with experiences like mine fly off the shelves? Of course this is a very subjective review, but this book was the initial reason I sought-out her "intuitive abilities" in the first place. I may be a believer, but not in Rapheala Pope.



2. I first heard of Rapheala (when I still lived in Hollister, CA) through my mother, who is a friend of a friend of hers. I arranged a day with Rapheala, who came to my barn & spoke with many people. She is amazing! There were a few "non-believers" that day who left believers in a BIG WAY. And one who heard something they didn't want to hear, but years later realized the truth of what she had been told. If you have EVER wondered "What IS my cat trying to tell me" or had any similiar questions about the animal friends in your life, this book is for you! Talk about getting a new perspective, not to mention the laughs, insights and ok, some tears. And to anyone who's lost beloved pets, and wants to believe they are still alive in spirit...here's your proof! And, if you see this Rapheala, expect to hear from me soon...my mare is going to be a mommy!



3. Wisdom of the Animals is among the first to go beyond demonstrating the validity of animal communication and recounting consultations for kitty potty problems and the like. For this book, the authors seek out wolves, whales, dolphins, and wild birds to learn about their lives and the impact of humans on them and the planet. They speak with domesticated animals too. The authors convey how horses, cats and dogs perceive human habitats and foibles.

   Wisdom of the Animals is unique for another reason. The readers see the process of learning to communicate with animals mirrored in the authors themselves. Elizabeth Morrison is much newer at it than Raphaela Pope. She shares her process of building confidence, learning techniques, and receiving clearer and clearer information. Animal communicators in-training will benefit from reading what Elizabeth and Raphaela receive from the same telepathic conversation.

   Best of all, this book is a heart-opening and heart-warming read. It was a treat to spend 240 pages in the company of two such wonderful people!




4. I was moved to tears as well as smiles by the stories in this wonderful book. I couldn't put it down until I read the very last page. Anyone who appreciates animals, anyone who has ever felt a connection to a favorite pet, will find a wealth of wisdom in this book. You'll never be able to look at animals in the same way, and you'll gain new insights into their behavior -- as well as your own! I highly recommend this book.



5. If you are an animal lover, you will find great pleasure in reading this warm and delightful book. Humans have known for years that we have the ability to communicate with animals, and psychological studies will prove that animals definitely are capable of communicating among themselves. We, as humans, can also learn much about life from our furry or feathered companions. Inhabitants of the animal kingdom need no manuals to teach them how to raise their young; they are masters at providing food, shelter and love; they are ingenious when it comes to calculating how to get themselves out of uncomfortable situations, and they most certainly know how to live within their means. They intuitively know the difference between what they need in life and what they want - their "wants" are few.

   This book reminds me of the "Chicken Soup for the Soul" books pertaining to animal and pet lovers. Here you will also find wonderful stories about cats dogs, birds, dolphins and whales which will warm your heart and make you want to hug your loving animal companion just one more time while he/she is still with you to enjoy and enrich your life. Though their time on this Earth is brief in the universe's overall plan, they are ours to love, cherish, and nurture. In return, they make us feel loved, needed, admired, accepted, and constantly remind us that we are never alone. As humans, we are truly blessed with the gift of animal friends both for their love and loyalty, and their intellect and creative wonder. The last chapter deals with the art of talking with animals. While I found this chapter to be interesting reading, I was not as impressed with this section as I was with the stories. For that reason, the book "lost a star" in the rating. There are several more in-depth books in print based on animal behaviour and psychology that explore the animal-human relationship and communication in greater detail, based on scientific research. In addition, communication between humans and animals is based, to a certain degree, on the individual bond between the two of you. There is no hard and fast rule that says this method will work and this one will not. The animal world is like the human world, each is individualistic in their own special way, and some feelings simply do not need to be put into "words." Look into your dog's eyes as he lays quietly beside you. You do not need to be an animal psychologist to understand the love both of you feel for each other.

5 comments about The Difficulty of Being a Dog.

1. A collection of 43 brief ruminations about dogs from literature and philosophical works. This book is very-- for lack of a better word-- "French" (if you've ever read any 20th century French philosophy, you'll know what I mean), and is recommended primarily for those who love both dogs and fine literature.



2. This delightful book is a treasure if you care about the two worlds of animals and literature. Pault Grenier has perfectly paid tribute to his deep love of dogs by presenting it wrapped in a wealth of literary wit and sharp writing.

   If you can get through this book without a continual smile and a deeper emotional bond with your own dog, then you're a hard case indeed.




3. Although i'm very familiar with the dog's of English literature, i've never before seen a overview of French dog literature. Make no mistake, dogs are as much a subject for French philosophy in this book as for their own intrinsic nature. (This fellow really likes our Faulkner's insight into dog's too, btw.)

   Because Grenier is intereseted in dogs as a metaphor in human history, he visits some some really horrific historical animal abuse scenes. Not for the faint of heart are contemparary descriptions of the Dog Island of Tukey or his insight into the dog buried in sand painting by Goya. As this book points out, we've tried most horrors out on animals before we have visited them on humans. Also.... Grenier has the unfortunate, male, knee jerk reaction to what he considers feminine interpretations of dog mental states. Anyone who would say Collete does not have true insight into dogs is saying more about his own attitude toward the female than he says about that eccentric writer. And... his worst insult is, "a society matron's interpretation". Whatever. Would recomend this book to all. I stayed up way too late last night!;)




4. The book is too disjointed and much of it reads like poetry this isn't what I expected.



5. This is not a warm-fuzzy, charming dog book. It's more a thoughtful, philosophical look -- in small, bite-size bits -- at the relationships between dogs and humans, and what humans have made of dogs in their writings.

   The "chapters" are more like Pascalian pensees: mostly two to three pages, but sometimes as short as one paragraph. They discuss everything from dogs in dreams and famous literary non-appreciators of dogs, to ghastly historical incidents such as the rounding up and exile to an island of thousands of dogs so that they starved and ate one another, by the Turks in 1910.

   Grenier recalls many writers' real and authorial canine doings, but the accent is on French writers (the author has been an editor for the distinguished French press Gallimard), so unless the names Larbaud, Queneau, Mauriac, Valery, Chateaubriand, or Romain Gary mean a lot, you are apt to feel like a stranger at the cocktail party. It can come as a relief when Grenier returns to the concrete and relates incidents with his own dog, Ulysses.

   (Faulker, Turgenev, Jack London and Kundera also turn up, although Grenier discusses Descartes's dismissal of animal souls and subsequent writers' response yet never mentions Kundera's lengthy discussion of the topic in _The Unbearable Lightness of Being_. The description of a Virginia Woolf novel narrated by a dog, _Flush_, sounds fascinating, though; how come I've never heard of this book?)

   Elegant, erudite, but perhaps a little too heady for the American reader.

No comments about Dog Spelled Backwards: Soulful Writing by Literary Dog Lovers.

No comments about The Parrot Who Thought She Was a Dog.

2 comments about James Herriot's Animal Stories.

1. Easy reading for a light min



2. James Herriot writes of his various experiences as a country vet. Laugh with his humorous mishaps, and share the joy and fulfillment of his career.

5 comments about A Cat Named Darwin.

1. This should be required reading for every human being! Animal lovers, beware, you will be drawn into this book and, from the moment you pick it up, it will be on your mind every hour of every day! It will help support that which you already know-- human beings are not the only creatures with great insight and intelligence on this planet. For those of you who do not consider yourselves animal lovers... for those who don't yet understand the inextricable bond between human, and animal, and our world entire, please give yourself the gift of this book. It is a life changing read for anyone who opens the cover! It made me laugh, it made me cry, it changed the very physiology of my brain-- and it will remain a part of me "until the molecules of memory and spirit blend together in the earth." Thank you, William Jordan, for sharing such an intimate story!



2. An eight year old female tortoise cat entered my life at the time my mother became ill and passed away. I did not believe a cat could become such a vital part of my existance and bring me compassion and love...but she did....what William writes about Darwin is so in line with what I have felt...and yet it is not shmalzy or cute..it is an honest assessement of what it is to be human if one allows oneself to be human....the fact that I too am single by choice, without even a room mate yet find the solitude of such important....and the cat named Mable has made that even more comfortable. I cried as I have not cried for any movie or book in a long time. This is a must read.



3. This was a phenomenal book. I'm an RVT, so I had no problem with the technical language. I loaned the book to a neighbor who got a bit bogged down by the techno-speak at times, but still loved the story of Darwin. I've been there, done that, but cried like a baby when Darwin got tired and could not go on. I also totally understand Mr. Jordan's inability to see Darwin off. I loved the the incidental stuff, like his taking in Hoover (great name!) and stating he was not a new cat, but a "rescue". I totally love Lizard Brain, and Noggingod. A Phenomenal book! Would love to talk with the author about similar "rescues", but am pretty busy with feedings, cleanings and meds. I feel like a kindred soul...
   
   Terilynn, RVT



4. Biologist/writer William Jordan's exploration of his relationships with two beloved rescued cats, Darwin and Hoover, make for interesting, if complex, reading, with high and low points aplenty. Though Jordan is not without serious flaws in his treatment of cats (and, in the past, a dog, and other animals), ultimately, this book is a tribute to the cats who penetrated his scientific detachment and, as he himself admits, turned him into a human being. For anyone who does NOT love cats and cannot understand those of us who do, I recommend this book -- it just may result in your wanting to find out for yourself what it's all about, and if that is the case, you'll never regret it. For those who already love cats, A CAT NAMED DARWIN is an unusual and unique look at the relationships of one man and two cats, told in a style unlike any other. In either instance, I recommend the book.



5. I found this book by seeing a newspaper item on the speaking engagement/book signing here in my town. I arrived early, purchased the book, then read the first half in the car. I had a hard time stopping to go in for the lecture. What a dear story. The author heroically resisted, but eventually succumbed to love's sweet sickness. I have read this book over and over with pleasure. Sure, he's a flawed being, but his love for Darwin overcame all. If you liked Peter Gether's books about Norton, you'll like this one too. Bravo:)

5 comments about Emergency Animal Rescue Stories: One Womans Dedication to Saving Animals from Disasters.

1. This is a great book....inspiring, diverse, a roller-coaster of emotions for me...the people who dedicate their lives to rescuing animals in disasters deserve high-praise...I live in south Florida and have been thru more hurricanes than I can count...so I understand what it takes to form a team and go into the disaster-torn area, never knowing what you will find...and these people, heroes all, do it gladly.



2. Terri Crisp is an amazing woman who inspired me and many other people to get involved in animal disaster work. She laid the groundwork for the animal disaster relief movement. Terri's dedication, in spite of vicious attacks from petty people, continues to inspire.
   
   I'm sure that mistakes were made during Katrina. That was pretty much the status quo for every relief organization involved in the effort, animal related or not. And these animal organizations, sadly, all fight against each other. I'll never understand it when they all claim to have the same goal. It is such a waste of time and resources.



3. The El Dorado Hills Telegraph
   Tuesday, April 10, 2007 11:56 AM PDT
   
   Noah's Wish, an organization devoted to helping animal disaster victims, has closed down. The non-profit is being investigated for misuse of funds. Philip Wood/The Telegraph
   Employees, volunteers open up as charity shuts down
   
   By: Cheri March
   
   El Dorado Hills-based Noah's Wish, a nonprofit organization devoted to helping animal disaster victims, has closed its doors amid an ongoing investigation by the California Attorney General.
   
   But not before many former volunteers and employees reportedly walked off the job.
   
   "I decided to leave Noah's Wish in December 2006 because I was absolutely disgusted with (founder) Terri Crisp," said Patricia Jones, former media director for the nonprofit.
   
   Jones would comment further due to the ongoing investigation by the California Attorney General.
   
   Founder Terri Crisp started Noah's Wish in 2002, but the nonprofit gained national recognition for its animal rescue efforts during Hurricane Katrina in late 2005.
   
   Former workers say there is no doubt that Noah's Wish helped animals in Slidell, Louisiana after Katrina, but allege mishandling of funds led to an investigation into founder Crisp.
   
   According to a 2005 audit, Noah's Wish generated $8 million in donations after Katrina, but spent just over $1 million on disaster relief efforts.
   
   In January 2006, Crisp told media that Noah's Wish had received only $5 million in donations.
   
   However, 2005 tax return forms stated less than $2 million of Noah's Wish funding was restricted, meaning only that amount was delegated specifically towards Katrina relief work.
   
   Because the bulk of the money was paid via PayPal, donors could not indicate how their funds were to be used-leaving spending up to the charity's discretion.
   
   Former employees pointed out Crisp's alleged lavish spending of company money: brand-new vehicles, plasma television sets for Crisp's office, and a $5,000 painting commissioned by artist Dan Rojas for the nonprofit's office.
   
   The organization has allegedly not responded to a disaster since Katrina, yet continued to solicit funds.
   
   In a letter to Noah's Wish partners dated February 2007, Crisp asked for help, calling preparing for future disasters increasingly challenging.
   
   "It's natural to assume the time to support us is during disasters, but there are funding needs everyday," she said. "In order to sustain our mission between disasters, an ongoing source of funding is imperative."
   
   Former workers also report favoritism for relatives and family friends within the organization.
   
   In late 2005, Crisp appointed her daughter Chief Operations Officer. The daughter is also listed as a board member on the group's 990. Other board members included Crisp's cousin, Crisp's daughter's fiancée, as well as another married couple.
   
   A statement on the Noah's Wish Web site said that as of March 28, Crisp was no longer associated with the group.
   
   The site also acknowledged the investigation, indicating restricted funds as a source of inquiry.
   
   "The California Attorney General has taken the position that certain funds donated to Noah's Wish during this period, and its immediate aftermath, are restricted and may only be used for the animal victims of Hurricane Katrina, rather than the animal victims of other disasters or for general disaster preparedness," the statement read.
   
   "Noah's Wish disagrees with the Attorney General's position with respect to those funds, but is working cooperatively with the Attorney General toward a timely resolution of the dispute."
   
   The nonprofit said it has set aside disputed funds and agreed not to use those funds pending final resolution of the investigation.
   
   Due to lack of funding, Noah's Wish ceased operations early this month.
   
   "As a former volunteer and employee all I can say is the public and volunteers were constantly praising Noah's Wish for being so organized, so on the ball," said a former worker who wished to remain anonymous.
   
   "If this is true, how could the organization not know the laws pertaining to non profit organizations donations?"
   
   In an email sent to staff, Crisp defended the nonprofit's spending.
   
   "So, ask yourself, if you were an organization who started to receive an avalanche of donations and it became apparent pretty soon after the mail started to arrive that there was going to be enough money to pay the expenses for that disaster, what would you do with the donations that continued to come in? Send them back? Tell people to quit sending money? This was the dilemma we faced."
   
   Phone and email messages left for Noah's Wish last week were not returned.
   
   Founder Terri Crisp could not be reached for comment.
   
   The Attorney General's office could not comment on the investigation, said an office spokeswoman.



4. Emergency Animal Rescue Stories looks at how disasters affect rescuers behind-the-scenes. I found it a particular poignant point by Terri Crisp to illustrate the enthusiasm of new volunteers in the field and the devastation felt by all rescuers when they find they cannot help every animal.
   
   I appreciated Crisp's candor in sharing her experiences with the reader. By selecting a wide variety of disasters that did not get much media attention, Terri Crisp shows how EARS responds to disasters, how they work during a disaster, and the people they encounter. I found that reading the 'human' side of things in a book for animal lovers helped me understand that in order for EARS to be successful, they have to take into account what happens to the people (both owners and the rescuers) when animals are lost, killed, or found. By the end of the book, it becomes quite obvious that the life of a rescuer is extremely hard--physically and emotionally. Whether you're an animal lover or not, you'll find from reading the book that animals affect people no matter what.
   
   Like some of the other reviewers, I was not a big fan of Crisp's writing style because the narrative voice and the dialogues seem stiff and forced for the most part. However, when she focuses on a specific rescue during a disaster, the writing smoothes itself out, and I find myself immersed in the narrative.
   
   I haven't read Out of Harm's Way yet but judging from comments by other reviewers, I suspect it focuses more on animal rescue stories which could be why it was better written. I look forward to reading it and other books by Terri published in the future.



5. While this book might not contain as many fuzzy, feel-good, heartstring-tuggers as Crisp's earlier book, Out of Harm's Way, I think her second effort measures up just as well to her first. This book features stories from disasters that didn't generate as much press and also focuses on the nitty gritty of animal rescue work- she describes some of the dangers, the politics, the risks, and the disappointments. The book isn't intended to be a bunny-hugging Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover's Soul- it serves as an eye-opening introduction to the difficult but ultimately satisfying world of animal rescue, written by a true trailblazer in the field. Recommended (and inspiring) reading for anyone considering volunteering for EARS.